Alhaji Seidu Agongo, a philanthropist and businessman, has donated free sewing machines to 850 beneficiaries under the “Stitch to Sustain Initiative” to enhance livelihoods in the Volta and Oti Regions.
The initiative was the second phase of the nationwide launched partnership with the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) to distribute 10,000 free sewing machines to vulnerable women and youth across Ghana.
Alhaji Agongo, speaking during the programme, held in Hohoe, said the donation was a well-thought idea birthed five years ago and aimed at helping the beneficiaries acquire skills that would empower them to take care of their needs.
He urged the beneficiaries to ensure that the equipment donated enhanced their standards of living.
Alhaji Agongo said it was important to provide opportunities for all to ensure that an everlasting impact was made in society to the benefit of all.
Madam Joan Selasie Ahiawordor, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), said a skill could transform a life, but having the right tools turned them into sustainable livelihoods.
She said across Ghana, many talented tailors and aspiring fashion entrepreneurs faced a shared barrier.
Madam Ahiawordor said through the partnership, the financial hurdle of acquiring basic equipment to convert talent into a regular income gap was being bridged.
She commended Alhaji Agongo for his generosity and visionary leadership as well as recognising the beneficiaries and stepping forward with concrete support.
Madam Ahiawordor said at NEIP, entrepreneurship required more than passion and vision demanding access to resources, equipment and catalytic opportunities.
She urged the beneficiaries to embrace continous learning, study new trends, master modern techniques and leverage digital tools and social media.
Mr Killian Donkor, the Kpando Municipal Chief Executive, on behalf of the Volta Regional Minister, said the initiative was a testament of President Mahama’s pledge of creating enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
He said the initiative was not only a presentation, but a job creation and urged the beneficiaries to put the equipment into good use.
Mr Prosper Kumi, the Hohoe Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), commended the initiative aimed at taking poverty away from the youth of the country.
He said achieving the target of poverty alleviation required public and private partnerships such as the initiative by Alhaji Agongo.